Strasbourg Cathedral

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Strasbourg Cathedral (officially the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg) is quite a sight to behold. French poet and playwright Paul Claudel called the Gothic edifice a "pinky-red angel hovering over the city." Goethe declared it to be "composed of a thousand harmonizing details" and "like the most sublime, wide-spreading tree of God, proclaiming the glory of the Lord."

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History of Strasbourg Cathedral

The site on which Strasbourg Cathedral stands was originally occupied by a Roman temple, then a Romanesque church that was built in 1015 and later destroyed by fire.

The present cathedral was completed in 1284, but the spire was not standing until 1439.

What to See at Strasbourg Cathedral

Unique in having no twin, the spire of Strasbourg cathedral was the tallest in Christendom for four centuries. Inside, several stained-glass windows were put into place between the 12th and 14th centuries, and these are especially beautiful as the sun shines into the cathedral.

The astronomical clock, a duplicate of the original, puts on a performance daily at 12:30 that is called the "twelve apostles parade." Be sure to watch for pickpockets while you watch the apostles.

A trip of 300 steps up the cathedral platform and provides a stunning panoramic view of Strasbourg.

Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours and prices can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

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Map of Strasbourg Cathedral

Below is a location map and aerial view of Strasbourg Cathedral. Using the buttons on the left (or the wheel on your mouse), you can zoom in for a closer look, or zoom out to get your bearings. To move around, click and drag the map with your mouse.